Trazodone vs Sileo: what's the difference?
How Trazodone and Sileo compare: what each is for, how it works, side effects and cost, side by side.
Last updated: October 2026 · 2 sources · see sources
Side by side
| Trazodone | Sileo | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Trazodone | Dexmedetomidine |
| Brand names | Desyrel | Sileo, Dexdomitor |
| For | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription | Prescription |
| Used for | Eases anxiety and fear in dogs (separation anxiety, fireworks, vet visits, travel, crate rest) and is used before vet visits in cats. [1] | Sileo, a gel rubbed on the gums, eases noise aversion in dogs. The injection (Dexdomitor) is used for sedation at the clinic. [2] |
| How it works | It raises serotonin activity in the brain, which has a calming, sedating effect. [1] | It lowers the release of norepinephrine, the body's alarm chemical. [2] |
| Common side effects | Usually mild: sleepiness, dilated pupils, vomiting or wobbliness. Rarely more agitation. [1] | Brief heavy sedation, pale gums and slow heart and breathing rates. [2] |
| Use with care | Not with MAOIs such as selegiline or amitraz tick collars. Tell your vet about other serotonin drugs such as fluoxetine or tramadol. [1] | Not for pets with severe heart, lung, liver or kidney disease. Wear gloves when applying the gel. [2] |
| Full guide | Trazodone guide | Sileo (Dexmedetomidine) guide |
Key differences
On the basics they are alike: same kind of animal, same way to get them. The differences are in how they work and what else they cover, shown in the table above.
Which one is right for my pet?
That is a call for your vet. They weigh your pet's age, weight, other health problems, other medicines and what you can realistically give at home.
Switching from Trazodone to Sileo is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between Trazodone and Sileo?
Both can help anxious dogs. Sileo is a gel on the gums for noise aversion; trazodone is a pill used for many kinds of anxiety.
Is Trazodone better than Sileo?
Neither is better for every pet. Your vet chooses based on your pet's species, age, health history, other medicines and what you can manage at home.
Can my pet take Trazodone and Sileo together?
Only if your vet says so. Some medicines in the same family should not be combined, and others are often used together. Always check before adding or switching.
Do Trazodone and Sileo need a prescription?
Trazodone: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Sileo: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.